The best places for stargazing in the world
Gazing at the calm serenity of a magnificent dark sky filled with twinkling stars is surely a magical and unforgettable feeling. Fortunately, there are quite a few special places around the world where you can experience stunning views of the Milky Way. Here’s a list of the best stargazing spots in the world!
Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA
There is no doubt that Joshua Tree is one of the best stargazing places in the world. The park is a desert so it’s extremely dark and it’s high above sea level meaning it’s close to heaven. It is also located far from the main civilizations, which means there is no light pollution. By far the best stargazing is on the east side of the park.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is a vast high altitude desert where you can find places with names related to astronomy such as Valley of the Moon and Valley of Mars. Famous in Chile for its energetic Tatio geysers and the flamingos of Chaxa Lagoon, you’ll also find unique salt flats, hike through jagged landscapes, and find opportunities to get acquainted with the history and culture of the desert. The desert attracts both professional and amateur astronomers, stargazers, and astrophotographers.
The Atacama Desert is a vast high altitude desert where you can find places with names related to astronomy such as Valley of the Moon and Valley of Mars. Famous in Chile for its energetic Tatio geysers and the flamingos of Chaxa Lagoon, you’ll also find unique salt flats, hike through jagged landscapes, and find opportunities to get acquainted with the history and culture of the desert. The desert attracts both professional and amateur astronomers, stargazers, and astrophotographers.
Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal
Voted one of the top six places for stargazing by National Geographic in 2016, Sagarmatha National Park with its Gokyo guesthouses is a treat for avid astronomers. Located below Mount Everest, the area is far from the lights, pollution and dust of big cities. Its location in the Himalayas makes this one of the most remote places to appreciate the night sky.
Voted one of the top six places for stargazing by National Geographic in 2016, Sagarmatha National Park with its Gokyo guesthouses is a treat for avid astronomers. Located below Mount Everest, the area is far from the lights, pollution and dust of big cities. Its location in the Himalayas makes this one of the most remote places to appreciate the night sky.
Rapa Nui, Easter Island, Chile
Located under the same stars that Polynesian tribes once traversed in their boats, Rapa Nui is a favorite stargazing spot for amateur and experienced astronomers alike. You can opt for a tour with an experienced guide who will point out the constellations, nebulae and planets and teach you how to use the telescope to view your favorite clusters or explore for yourself. Take photos of Anakena Beach and become an expert on the stars in the skies of the southern hemisphere!
Located under the same stars that Polynesian tribes once traversed in their boats, Rapa Nui is a favorite stargazing spot for amateur and experienced astronomers alike. You can opt for a tour with an experienced guide who will point out the constellations, nebulae and planets and teach you how to use the telescope to view your favorite clusters or explore for yourself. Take photos of Anakena Beach and become an expert on the stars in the skies of the southern hemisphere!
Death Valley, California, USA
Camping in Death Valley has become a rite of passage for stargazers. It is a Gold Tier Dark Sky National Park, which is the largest in the US. There is almost no light pollution in the park and stargazing events take place throughout the year. There is a choice of hotel, inn or camping accommodation and you are welcome to bring your own telescope. Visit Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artist’s Palette, Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Ubehebe Crater, and Racetrack Playa as you marvel at the wonders that surround you.
Camping in Death Valley has become a rite of passage for stargazers. It is a Gold Tier Dark Sky National Park, which is the largest in the US. There is almost no light pollution in the park and stargazing events take place throughout the year. There is a choice of hotel, inn or camping accommodation and you are welcome to bring your own telescope. Visit Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Artist’s Palette, Wildrose Charcoal Kilns, Ubehebe Crater, and Racetrack Playa as you marvel at the wonders that surround you.
Brecon Beacons, Wales
The Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Reserve is a great place for stargazing where you can see the Milky Way, choose to stay overnight in lodges and hotels in the area, and take stunning astrophotographs. Go stargazing at one of a dozen special sites, including Carreg Chennen Castle, Crai Reservoir, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Llangors Lake and Crai Village.
The Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Reserve is a great place for stargazing where you can see the Milky Way, choose to stay overnight in lodges and hotels in the area, and take stunning astrophotographs. Go stargazing at one of a dozen special sites, including Carreg Chennen Castle, Crai Reservoir, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Llangors Lake and Crai Village.
Karijini National Park, Australia
Join a guided tour at the Dales Gorge Campground in Karijini National Park. A stargazing site that wows visitors and provides ample photo opportunities, awe-gazing, and camping under the stars. Try a day hike followed by a star tour or event in the evenings.
Join a guided tour at the Dales Gorge Campground in Karijini National Park. A stargazing site that wows visitors and provides ample photo opportunities, awe-gazing, and camping under the stars. Try a day hike followed by a star tour or event in the evenings.
